TechWatch: Power Conditioning, Voice Recorders, Phone Gear

Power To the Peeps
Picture this: You have a complex product line of power-conditioning and protection equipment with tons of different pieces. Now you add yet another layer of functionality in the name of better air handling, given that racks of gear are pumping out plenty of hot air with nowhere to go. Call in a Web-based configurator, a tool that has been around from many companies but is one that APC has done with finesse and aplomb. To use its BuildOut Tool, you'll need a Windows PC and have to spend some time downloading the latest Java runtime and other plug-ins to use it. If you are a registered partner, you can save plenty of time and effort in configuring the company's line of PowerstruXure power and cooling-rack and room-sized products. The tool allows you to create a customized estimate and generate a detailed solution that has the right parts and can be used in bids.

BuildOut Tool, www.apcc.com/extranets/reseller Price: Free for qualified resellers

The Smallest Voice Recorder--Ever
Now that the iPod is a platform for all sorts of computing applications, why not use it as a digital recorder? That's exactly what Belkin has done with its Universal Microphone Adapter. You can save the extra time and space in your travel kit and have a device that can automatically (via iTunes) transform your iPod (not the minis) from a music accessory to a fully capable digital voice recorder. What makes this item so nifty is that it just plugs into your iPod. In true Apple style, there is no software to download, and the controls to fuss with are minimal. You just need to attach your own microphone and earphones to listen. Once a recording is made (as a .wav file), the next time you synchronize to your PC the files are transferred to your hard disk, making it simple to keep track of your recorded interviews. Truth be told, I had all sorts of trouble with several microphones (since fixed by Belkin), but ultimately the simplicity and sound clarity of the unit won me over. Belkin makes other iPod accessories that are also worthy of a closer look.

Universal Microphone Adapter, www.belkin.com Price: $39.99

You, Too, Can Be a Phone Operator
The most interesting hands-free headset to come along in a while is from Plantronics, a company that has continued to innovate in this area and has all sorts of great phone gear. Case in point: the CS50 headset. Its base station looks like a rocket ship. The unit itself is on the smallish side, with volume and on-hook controls all compactly put together. No, this isn't a Bluetooth model, but it works over standard 900-MHz frequencies and can deliver clear sound over several hundred feet away from your desk,perfect for those who like to roam the office but still be able to answer their calls. To take full advantage of the CS50, you'll need an optional lifter accessory (the HL10, which lists for $79) that will pick up the handset when you have an incoming call. I had some trouble getting this attached to my phone, and the instructions could have been somewhat clearer. Yet the sound clarity is superb, and the level of comfort is unparalleled.

CS50 headset, www.plantronics.com Price: $299